Herbs · Fresh

Hoja santa

Also called hierba santa, Mexican pepperleaf, acuyo

Large heart-shaped Mexican leaves with an anise, sassafras-like aroma; used to wrap fish, tamales and cheese, and in Oaxacan mole verde.

VeganVegetarianGluten-freeDairy-free

What can replace it

  • T2 · GoodAvocado leaves

    Smaller leaves, milder anise; use more and they can't wrap. (use 2× the amount)

  • T3 · In a pinchBanana leaves

    Works as a wrapper; adds none of the anise flavour.

  • T3 · In a pinchFennel fronds

    Anise flavour but no broad leaf for wrapping.

Cook with Hoja santa

No recipes use it yet.